*This is technically just outside the Irvine border near Jamboree and Portola, but it is one of the best hikes around Orange County, and you can make it as short or long of a hike as you like. Park across the street from Peter’s Canyon Elementary School. Walk a few minutes from your car to the start of the hiking trail, which is obvious as there will be other people and cars there at all times of the day. I like to start by going up into the trees, getting the uphill part of the way first and ending the hike with the flat part. You can take routes anywhere from 2-5 miles. Note: There are other ways to enter and exit this hike, this is just my preference with coming from the Irvine/Northwood area. Dogs welcome but be careful as there are bikers on the trail too and I know people that have seen snakes on the trail before although I have probably been 20 times and never seen one.